I live on the Pine Lake Plateau of Issaquah at about 500' elevation and have
been keeping track of the first hummingbird sightings since 1990. On an
average, it has been March 20th. I am amazed at the February dates for Cougar
Mt. which isn't that far away or different in elevation! I usually notice the
hummmingbirds pretty quickly, if they are in the area, as my feeder is right
outside my kitchen window.

Which brings me to a question. Before I learned to put the feeder out before
I expected the birds, I'd first see them right at my window, looking in at me
which I interpreted as "well, where's the feeder?". Are those repeat
customers from last year or did they pick my yard because they see other type
feeders or because I have salmonberries? Whatever the reason, I always get a
thrill and think spring is really coming. (despite what the groundhog says!)

Joan Macdonald
Issaquah, WA